Rottnest Island State Reserve

About Rottnest Island State Reserve

Rottnest Island, also known as Wadjemup, is a Class A Reserve off the Western Australian coast. The Rottnest Island Authority presents it as an island destination with protected landforms, flora and fauna, beaches, heritage sites and a compact settlement around Thomson Bay. It is not a Perth neighbourhood reached by a short land transfer: ferry, aircraft or private boat access makes it a self-contained day or overnight trip. Daily access; arrival is governed by ferry, air-service or private-boat schedules rather than fixed island opening hours.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

What's inside

The island experience is distributed across beaches, bays, walking routes, wildlife encounters and heritage places rather than contained in one visitor building. The Authority's visitor information highlights planning support, amenities, accessible facilities and safety information, while its local walking guide identifies beaches and lookouts within reach of the main settlement. The Visitor Centre at Thomson Bay is the practical starting point for maps and current advice. Wide pathways and ramps provide step-free access to most facilities, but terrain and access vary around the island. Discover Rottnest and Quokka Coaches buses are wheelchair accessible; passengers should arrange space for mobility equipment in advance.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

How long to spend

A same-day trip needs most of a day once the return ferry and island transport are included. A short visit can stay close to the main settlement; a full circuit requires more commitment. Overnight stays remove the return-sailing pressure, but accommodation availability and current booking rules must be checked directly with the relevant operator. Compulsory island admission valid from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027: AUD 21.50 per adult for a single-day visit or AUD 28.50 per adult for an extended stay. Ferry passengers pay the admission fee as part of their fare; private-boat visitors pay online before arrival.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Season and crowds

Choose a date only after confirming the transport you intend to use and the weather suitable for your route. The Authority advises visitors to check conditions, pack appropriately and plan their itinerary, especially when cycling. The island has exposed coastal conditions, so a comfortable main-settlement walk does not guarantee a comfortable longer ride or swim. Daily access; arrival is governed by ferry, air-service or private-boat schedules rather than fixed island opening hours. Wide pathways and ramps provide step-free access to most facilities, but terrain and access vary around the island.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Tickets

Transport, island admission, hire equipment, tours and accommodation are separate decisions. The Authority's visitor material directs travellers to plan transport and activities in advance, while its Visitor Centre guidance notes that some fees are paid online. Confirm inclusions before purchasing. Compulsory island admission valid from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027: AUD 21.50 per adult for a single-day visit or AUD 28.50 per adult for an extended stay. Ferry passengers pay the admission fee as part of their fare; private-boat visitors pay online before arrival. Wide pathways and ramps provide step-free access to most facilities, but terrain and access vary around the island.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Getting there

Reach Rottnest by ferry, plane or private boat, then choose walking, bicycle, e-bike, bus or another approved island option for local movement. The Authority advises booking return ferry travel and island transport before a visit, especially for organised groups. SeaLink Rottnest and Rottnest Express operate from Fremantle and Perth, while Rottnest Fast Ferries operates from Hillarys Boat Harbour. Named departure points are B Shed at Victoria Quay in Fremantle, Northport at Rous Head in North Fremantle, Barrack Street Jetty in Perth and Hillarys Boat Harbour. Ferries arrive at Main Jetty in Thomson Bay. Typical crossings take about 25 minutes from Fremantle, 45 minutes from Hillarys and 90 minutes from Perth. Victoria Quay, Hillarys and Barrack Street Jetty have nearby bus or train access. Ferry schedules vary by season and weather.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

What to watch out for

The reserve's wildlife, flora and landforms are protected. Follow the Authority's practical guidance, keep to permitted routes and do not feed, touch or crowd quokkas and other animals. Cycling requires attention to road rules and changing conditions; the Authority specifically reminds riders to keep left. Wide pathways and ramps provide step-free access to most facilities, but terrain and access vary around the island. Wheelchair access differs by ferry service and departure terminal. Rottnest Express services from Perth CBD and B Shed are not wheelchair accessible, while selected Rous Head voyages are accessible.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Photography

The island offers shoreline, bays, historic structures and wildlife subjects. Photograph quokkas from a respectful distance and never change an animal's behaviour for a selfie; a good image is not worth feeding, touching or blocking a wild animal. The public Commons lead image depicts a quokka on Rottnest Island and is used with its recorded licence and photographer credit. Check the Authority's current requirements before flying equipment or arranging a professional shoot. Accessible toilets or showers are available at Thomson Bay Visitor Centre, Digby Drive, Henderson Avenue, Bedford Avenue, the campground, The Basin, Geordie Bay, Parker Point, Stark Bay and West End.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Where it is

• 1 hr 30 min

  45 min walk

  Wadjemup Museum

  • Must see
  • Museum
• 1 hr 30 min

  287 min walk

  WA Maritime Museum

  • Must see
  • Museum
• 45 min

  290 min walk

  Round House

  • Must see
  • Historic monument

External links

• View on Wikidata